Paul Otto Brundage

Paul Brundage passed away on July 12, 2021 at the age of 70. He resided in Avondale Estates, GA. Paul was born in Bath, New York on July 13, 1950 to Lempi Neimi and Warner Francis Brundage, and was raised with his three brothers Warner, John, and David in Pompano Beach, Florida. Paul always had lots of energy, which was directed first at tap dancing, and then to the swim team, which became a life-long passion. His achievements in swimming include a National Championship title as part of a 10 and under relay; high-school state records in the 200-Individual Medley and 200-breast stroke in 1966, 1967, and 1968; and he was part of the Ivy-League Champions Swim Team in 1971 at University of Pennsylvania. Paul attended the University of Pennsylvania from 1968 - 1972, earning a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. He earned a Masters Degree in School Counseling in 1976 from Florida Atlantic University. Paul and his wife Madelynn were married in 1970 in Cullowhee, North Carolina, and had two daughters. They lived in Ft. Lauderdale, FL and moved to Citrus County, FL in 1978.

Paul worked in the Citrus County School system for 30 years, first as a fourth-grade teacher and then as a Guidance Counselor. He loved his job and looked for ways to connect with students, even if it meant being a little silly. Over the course of his career he portrayed characters such as “Louie the Lightning Bug”, “Duso the Dolphin”, and “Clyde Pride”. He also coached the Lecanto High School swim team for many years in the 1980’s, 1990’s, and early 2000’s, and it was common to see “Coach B” giving encouragement and technique demonstrations from the side of the pool. Whether swimming or coaching, it was easy to detect his enthusiasm and love of the sport, as well as the caring he showed for every member of the team.

Paul always had a smile to offer, was quick to laugh, and wasn’t afraid to tell a corny joke to lighten the mood. His favorite movies had Steve Martin or Billy Crystal in them. He loved music, particularly The Beatles, Paul Simon, the Moody Blues, Talking Heads, and all bluegrass. He was an avid guitar player and made many friends through his music, playing in a number of bluegrass, Hawaiian, and pick-up groups. Paul was also a member of the Rotary Club, and enjoyed giving his time to his community. Paul loved his family, believed in the golden rule, and radiated kindness to all he came into contact with.

Paul is survived by his wife Madelynn, daughters Caroline and Allison, and three grandchildren, Jack, Claire, and Juniper. The family will plan a Memorial Service in the future; Floral Hills Funeral Services can be contacted for additional information. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Central Citrus Rotary Club Lecanto High School Scholarship Fund (Central Citrus Rotary Club; P.O. Box 640610, Beverly Hills, FL 34465).